Someday dreams came true, but for the great Varese of this first part of season today isn't one of that day.The Montepaschi Siena wins the cup imposing is experience already in the first minutes with an overpowering 18-0 in 5 minutes that directs the game to the Italian champions. Varese tried to mend the breach but, after a good comeback, is stopped in the last minutes by a surgical Brown, top scorer (but not MVP) with 25 points in only 24 minutes! The MVP of the entire competition is Daniel Hackett (200-PG-87, agency: Two Points, college: USC), decisive yesterday in the semifinal and today in the second and third quarter when Siena maintained the advantage (however 17 points for the italian guard). Banchi wins is first Final 8 like head coach thanks also the defense and the choises in the key moments. For Varese dream ends but there are positive segnals to continue his very good season. Mike Green is the leader with 29 points, the last to surrender, but with Dunston is the only player in double digit, too few to win against this Siena. Sakota and Polonara don't repeat the performance of the last 2 games, Ere finds the basket with difficulty and Banks never enter in the match (zero points with only 15 minutes). The Cimberio not shoots well from 3 and loses too many ball (18) closing with just one steal!

Fisrt ball of the final is for Siena that starts with a devastating 18-0 in the first 5 minutes with 7 points of Janning and 5 for Brown with a perfect 8/9 total. The first points of Varese, after 0/7 and 3 turnovers, are for Talts after almost 6 minutes. Siena commits 2 offensive fouls and, after the second foul of Eze, De Nicolao scores the triple for the -13. Brown answers by 3 (21-5) but Dunston and Talts with 5 consecutive points force the timeout of coach Banchi. In the last 2 minutes continues the partial of Varese with Dunston and Green thanks also another 2 consecutive fouls, in attack, of the Montepashi (one of this is the second for Kangur). The American center (5 points until now, top scorer of his team) blocks Ortner but Sanikidze, with the last shot served by Brown (already 8 points and 3 assist for the playmaker), closes the quarter with the result of 23-14 closing also the against-partial of 9-0 for the Cimberio.With 2 free throws, and a good defense on Hackett that procures the dunk of Rush in counterattack, De Nicolao open the second quarter. After the baskets of Ortner, Dunston (two times) and Hackett Varese comeback until the -5 and is the time for Sakota, hero of the semifinal. Hackett scores again and back also the points of Janning that, with his first triple, take Siena on +12 with 5 minutes remaining. Green breaks the partial and Sakota realizes his first points, of course by 3, but Hackett continues to attack the basket gaining important free throws and the third foul of Dunston. Green tries to lead the Cimberio with his aggressivity but, after the third foul also for Ere, Siena in the last minute reaches the 14 points of advantage thanks the triple of Hackett (decisive with 12 points) that miss the last shoot to increase the gap. At the end of the first half, 43-29, there are also 10 points of Janning for Siena while for the Cimberio 9 points of Dunston and 6 of Green (but 5 turnovers). Still without points Banks and Ere (for the captain 6 rebounds). Important rest of Brown in the second partial and already 7 rebounds for Sanikidze. Siena starts good in the third quarter with the points of Moss, Brown and Eze while Varese, excluding the usual Green and Dunston, finds finally the first points of Ere by the free throws line. After a tecnical foul for the Cimberio bench and the serious fourth foul of Dunston Siena is again in control (+18) even if Green tries to react with 3 points canceled immediately by the triple of Brown (4/4 by 3) and a couple of turnovers (13 total with only one steal). Brown answers to the amazing 3 points shot of Green (3 fouls shortly after) turn off the enthusiasm of the supporters and thanks a great defense close the partial for 66-49 despite the tap-in of Rush in the last possessions. Still zero points for Banks, until now disappointing own like yesterday.Polonara opens the last 10 minutes with the dunk, in tap-in, and Siena loses the first ball with the fourth foul, in attack, for Eze (that blocks Green shortly after). Ere finds his first points, after the free throws, but Varese does not take advantage of the turnovers of Siena excluding the 2+1 of Dunston for the -10. For the Nigerian guard arrives is fourth foul but the bad news for coach Vitucci is another, the fifth foul of Dunston that ends is Final 8 prematurely with 14 points. With the triple and the free throws of Green the Cimberio back, after very long time, under the double digit of disadvantage and, encouraged by the numerous supporters, starts the last 3 minutes of the game with only 5 points to recover! In a decisive moment Hackett scores by 3 but with 4 consecutive points is Green again to approach his team until the -4. In the last minute Brown does not miss anything and, despite the attempts of Green and the triple of Ere with 9 second remaining the free throws of Sanikidze and the triple of De Nicolao (unfortunately too late) close the game and Siena is champion once again!

The round was exceptionally exciting as four games ended with a tiny margin. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin. The game between third ranked Roseto (7-4) and fourth ranked F.Kontatto BO (7-4) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Roseto was defeated by F.Kontatto BO in a tough game in Bologna 70-76. F.Kontatto BO looked well-organized offensively h... [read more]

The round was exceptionally exciting as four games ended with a tiny margin. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game between third ranked Roseto (7-4) and fourth ranked F.Kontatto BO (7-4) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Roseto was defeated by F.Kontatto BO in a tough game in Bologna 70-76. F.Kontatto BO looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Point guard Matteo Montano (188-92) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 6 rebounds. American forward Justin Knox (205-89, college: N.Carolina, agency: Two Points) contributed with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. F.Kontatto BO's coach Matteo Boniciolli used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American point guard Adam Smith (185-92, college: Georgia Tech) answered with 22 points and 6 assists for Roseto. F.Kontatto BO maintains fourth place in A2 with 7-4 record. F.Kontatto BO are looking forward to face Piacenza (#8) in Casalpusterlengo in the next round. Roseto will play at home against Jesi and is hoping to win this game. Very important is a road loss of third ranked Tortona (7-4) against eleventh ranked Agrigento (5-6) on Thursday night. Visiting Tortona was defeated by Agrigento in Agrigento 84-70. It was a great evening for American swingman Perrin Buford (198-94, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds. Damen Bell-Holter helped adding 20 points and 6 rebounds. The former international power forward Luca Garri (207-82) responded with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Agrigento moved-up to ninth place in A2. Tortona at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. Agrigento will play against higher ranked FCM Ferentino (#8) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tortona will play against Novipiu Casale (#15) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Very important is a road loss of second ranked Legnano (8-3) against twelfth ranked Latina Basket (5-6) on Thursday night. Visiting Legnano was defeated by Latina Basket in a tough game in Latina 85-90. It was an exceptional evening for Keron DeShields who led the winners and scored 15 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. Nikolas Raivio came up with 30 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for Legnano in the defeat. Latina Basket maintains twelfth place in A2 with 5-6 record. Loser Legnano keeps the second position with three games lost. Latina Basket will meet at home Viola RC (#14) in the next round. Legnano will play against Agropoli (#13) and hope to secure a win. Serie A2 top team - Virtus Bologna (9-2) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat seventh ranked Alma Trieste (6-5) 76-63. The best player for the winners was Guido Rosselli who scored 18 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Alma Trieste's coach Eugenio Dalmasson rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Virtus Bologna maintains first place in A2 with 9-2 record. Alma Trieste at the other side keeps the seventh position with five games lost. Virtus Bologna's next round opponent will be Unieuro Forli (#15) at home which should be an easy win for them. Alma Trieste will play against Mantova (#3) and hope to win that game. Serie A2 top team - Angelico Biella (9-2) had no problems winning another game on Thursday. This time they crushed sixth ranked FCM Ferentino (6-5) 100-80. Carl Wheatle orchestrated the victory by scoring 29 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). Angelico Biella's coach Michele Carrea allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Angelico Biella maintains first place in A2 with 9-2 record. Loser FCM Ferentino dropped to the eighth position with five games lost. Angelico Biella will face Scafati (#16) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. FCM Ferentino will play against Agrigento (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 11: In A2 Jesi beat Unieuro Forli on the road 81-75. Bondi Ferrara lost to Piacenza on its own court 79-81. Udine APU unfortunately lost to Mantova in Mirandola 63-81. Chieti managed to beat Recanati at home 78-72. Verona was defeated by Ravenna on the opponent's court 70-78. Treviso Basket beat Imola in a home game 77-65. Treviglio lost to Viola RC on the road 88-90. Mens Sana 1871 unfortunately lost to Roma E-basket on its own court 66-69. Lighthouse TR recorded a loss to Roma Virtus in a road game 84-98. Novipiu Casale defeated Scafati at home 63-61. Rieti was beaten by Agropoli on the opponent's court 85-80. The most impressive performance of 11th round was 28 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists by John Brown of Roma Virtus.

East

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both ninth ranked Jesi and 14th ranked Unieuro Forli had identical 4-6 record. But Unieuro Forli was not able to use a home court advantage and was defeated by the opponent from Jesi 81-75 on Thursday night. American point guard Timothy Bowers (188-82, college: Mississippi St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. His fellow American import forward Dwayne Davis (196-89, college: S.Mississippi) contributed with 26 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Wayne Blackshear (196-92, college: Louisville) answered with 23 points and 6 rebounds and point guard Francesco Paolin (189-95) added 6 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Unieuro Forli. Jesi maintains ninth place in A2 with 5-6 record. Newly promoted Unieuro Forli dropped to the fifteenth position with seven games lost. Jesi will face higher ranked Roseto (#6) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Unieuro Forli will play against the league's leader Virtus Bologna (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.Top scorers:Jesi: D.Davis 26+6reb+1ast, T.Bowers 24+7reb+4ast, A.Benevelli 10+3reb+1ast, M.Maganza 8+13reb, A.Picarelli 5+2reb+2ast, G.Janelidze 4+4rebUnieuro Forli: W.Blackshear 23+6reb, S.Pierich 11+1reb, M.Ferri 11+4reb+2ast, S.Vico 11+2reb+3ast, J.Crockett 9+8reb+2ast, F.Paolin 6+9reb+4ast

Very expected game when 13th ranked Bondi Ferrara (4-7) was edged at home by eighth ranked Piacenza (6-5) 81-79 on Thursday. Piacenza forced 19 Bondi Ferrara turnovers. American guard Kenny Hasbrouck (191-86, college: Siena) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points. The former international power forward Luca Infante (204-82) contributed with 9 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American forward Laurence Bowers (203-90, college: Missouri) answered with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import Terrence Roderick (196-88, college: UAB) added 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists in the effort for Bondi Ferrara. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Piacenza maintains eighth place in A2 with 6-5 record. Loser Bondi Ferrara dropped to the fourteenth position with seven games lost. Piacenza will face higher ranked F.Kontatto BO (#4) in Bologna in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Bondi Ferrara will play on the road against Udine APU (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Piacenza: K.Hasbrouck 23+3reb+3ast, R.Jones 14+8reb+1ast, T.Raspino 13+5reb+4ast, F.De Nicolao 10+3reb+2ast, L.Infante 9+9reb+5ast, S.Borsato 6+3reb+3astBondi Ferrara: L.Bowers 21+12reb+2ast, T.Roderick 19+6reb+6ast, M.Mastellari 10+6reb+4ast, A.Ibarra 10+2reb+4ast, R.Cortese 8+1reb+2ast, F.Pellegrino 7+4reb

The game between third ranked Roseto (7-4) and fourth ranked F.Kontatto BO (7-4) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Roseto was defeated by F.Kontatto BO in a tough game in Bologna 70-76. F.Kontatto BO looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Point guard Matteo Montano (188-92) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 6 rebounds. American forward Justin Knox (205-89, college: N.Carolina, agency: Two Points) contributed with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Knox is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. F.Kontatto BO's coach Matteo Boniciolli used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American point guard Adam Smith (185-92, college: Georgia Tech) answered with 22 points and 6 assists and the other American import power forward Brandon Sherrod (198-92, college: Yale) added 19 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Roseto. F.Kontatto BO maintains fourth place in A2 with 7-4 record. F.Kontatto BO are looking forward to face Piacenza (#8) in Casalpusterlengo in the next round. Roseto will play at home against Jesi and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:F.Kontatto BO: M.Montano 23+6reb, S.Mancinelli 15+2reb+2ast, J.Knox 11+7reb+1ast, L.Campogrande 6, N.Italiano 5+4reb+3ast, L.Candi 5+4astRoseto: A.Smith 22+2reb+6ast, B.Sherrod 19+9reb+1ast, R.Fultz 12+2reb+1ast, R.Casagrande 7+3reb+1ast, N.Mei 5+2reb+4ast, G.Fattori 2+1reb

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 16th ranked Recanati's (1-10) road loss to fifteenth ranked Chieti (4-7) 72-78 on Thursday. Chieti outrebounded Recanati 40-27 including 29 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Recanati's players. American guard Trae Golden (188-91, college: Georgia Tech) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Naturalized American power forward Cristopher Mortellaro (207-82, college: Drury) contributed with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds (perfect from the field making all eight shots !!!) for the winners. American forward Jalen Reynolds (208-92, college: Xavier) answered with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 12 rebounds (on 12-of-14 shooting from the field) and the other American import guard Travis Bader (196-91, college: Oakland) added 15 points in the effort for Recanati. Chieti moved-up to thirteenth place in A2. Loser Recanati keeps the sixteenth position with ten games lost. Chieti will face higher ranked Verona (#11) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Recanati will play against the league's second-placed Treviso Basket (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.Top scorers:Chieti: T.Golden 22+6reb+8ast, C.Mortellaro 19+11reb+3ast, L.Sergio 17+8reb+3ast, C.Davis 7+7reb+2ast, M.Piccoli 4+3reb+4ast, D.Zucca 4Recanati: J.Reynolds 27+12reb, T.Bader 15, F.Loschi 9+2reb+3ast, G.Sorrentino 8+1reb+1ast, R.Bolpin 4+1reb+2ast, L.Marini 4+1reb

Everything went according to plan when sixth ranked Ravenna (7-4) defeated at home 11th ranked Verona (4-7) 78-70 on Thursday. Ravenna dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to Verona's 22. American power forward Taylor Smith (199-91, college: SF Austin) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. His fellow American import point guard Derrick Marks (190-93, college: Boise St.) contributed with 21 points and 4 assists for the winners. Four Ravenna players scored in double figures. American point guard Dawan Robinson (188-82, college: Rhode Island) answered with 14 points and the former international swingman Giorgio Boscagin (196-83) added 12 points in the effort for Verona. Ravenna moved-up to fifth place in A2. Loser Verona keeps the eleventh position with seven games lost. Ravenna will face Imola (#10) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Verona will play against Chieti and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Ravenna: D.Marks 21+4reb+4ast, T.Smith 18+10reb+3ast, M.Tambone 11+3reb+1ast, G.Sabatini 10+2reb+2ast, A.Chiumenti 6+5reb, G.Sgorbati 5+3reb+1astVerona: D.Robinson 14+1reb+3ast, G.Boscagin 12+3reb+2ast, D.Brkic 10+4reb+1ast, M.Frazier 8+1reb+2ast, G.Pini 6+2reb+1ast, M.Portannese 6+3reb+6ast

Serie A2 top team - Virtus Bologna (9-2) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat seventh ranked Alma Trieste (6-5) 76-63. They outrebounded Alma Trieste 40-26 including 25 on the defensive glass. 24 personal fouls committed by Alma Trieste helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was the former international swingman Guido Rosselli (198-83) who scored 18 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. American center Kenny Lawson (207-88, college: Creighton) chipped in a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds. Four Virtus Bologna players scored in double figures. American forward Jordan Parks (201-94, college: N.C.Central, agency: Two Points) produced 9 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import forward Javonte Green (193-93, college: Radford, agency: Duran International) added 15 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Alma Trieste's coach Eugenio Dalmasson rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Virtus Bologna maintains first place in A2 with 9-2 record. Alma Trieste at the other side keeps the seventh position with five games lost. Virtus Bologna's next round opponent will be Unieuro Forli (#15) at home which should be an easy win for them. Alma Trieste will play against Mantova (#3) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Virtus Bologna: G.Rosselli 18+9reb+4ast, K.Lawson 17+13reb+1ast, M.Umeh 13+2reb+2ast, M.Spissu 10+4reb+1ast, A.Michelori 7+6reb+1ast, T.Oxilia 4+3reb+1astAlma Trieste: A.Cittadini 15+4reb+1ast, J.Green 15+6reb, J.Parks 9+10reb+2ast, A.Pecile 7+1reb, R.Prandin 6+3ast, S.Bossi 5+3reb+1ast

There was no surprise when 10th ranked Imola (4-7) lost on the road to second ranked Treviso Basket (9-2) 77-65 on Thursday. Treviso Basket outrebounded Imola 39-27 including 25 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The former international guard Matteo Fantinelli (195-93, agency: Octagon Europe) orchestrated the victory with a triple-double by scoring 14 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. American forward Jesse Perry (200-89, college: Arizona) contributed with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Treviso Basket's coach Stefano Pillastrini allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American point guard Travis Cohn (188-89, college: Jacksonville) answered with 17 points and 5 rebounds and forward Alex Ranuzzi (195-86, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Imola. Treviso Basket maintains second place in A2 with 9-2 record despite having the same number of points like the leader Angelico Biella. Loser Imola keeps the tenth position with seven games lost. Treviso Basket will face Recanati (#16) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Imola will play against Ravenna (#5) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Treviso Basket: D.Moretti 14+2reb+1ast, M.Fantinelli 14+12reb+10ast, J.Perry 11+7reb+4ast, Q.DeCosey 9+4reb+1ast, A.Ancellotti 8+6reb+2ast, T.Rinaldi 8+5reb+1astImola: T.Cohn 17+5reb+3ast, A.Ranuzzi 13+6reb+4ast, M.Maggioli 10+4reb+1ast, A.Tassinari 9+1reb+2ast, J.Hubalek 9+5reb+3ast, N.Hassan 7+2reb

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Tortona (7-4) against eleventh ranked Agrigento (5-6) on Thursday night. Visiting Tortona was defeated by Agrigento in Agrigento 84-70. It was a great evening for American swingman Perrin Buford (198-94, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds. His fellow American import power forward Damen Bell-Holter (206-90, college: ORU) helped adding 20 points and 6 rebounds. The former international power forward Luca Garri (207-82) responded with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists and American point guard Glenn Cosey (183-92, college: E.Kentucky, agency: Three Eye Sports) scored 14 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Agrigento moved-up to ninth place in A2. Tortona at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. Agrigento will play against higher ranked FCM Ferentino (#8) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tortona will play against Novipiu Casale (#15) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Agrigento: P.Buford 21+13reb+3ast, D.Bell-Holter 20+6reb, Q.De Laurentiis 12+1reb, M.Evangelisti 10+1reb+3ast, R.Zugno 10+2reb+1ast, I.Ferraro 5+4rebTortona: L.Garri 18+9reb+6ast, G.Cosey 14+2reb+2ast, P.Greene IV 11+4reb+1ast, M.Sanna 10+3reb, D.Alviti 5+3reb, G.Ricci 4+3reb

There was a surprise result when eighth ranked Roma Virtus (6-5) won against at home 4th placed Lighthouse TR (6-5) 98-84 on Thursday. Roma Virtus made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. Roma Virtus outrebounded Lighthouse TR 45-24 including a 16-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. American forward John Brown (203-92, college: High Point) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 28 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international Aristide Landi (203-94) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Roma Virtus' coach Fabio Corbani allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American point guard Keddric Mays (183-84) answered with 26 points, 6 assists and 4 steals and the former international power forward Andrea Renzi (207-89, agency: Players Group) added 19 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Lighthouse TR. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Roma Virtus moved-up to fourth place in A2. Roma Virtus will face Rieti (#10) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Lighthouse TR will play against Mens Sana 1871 (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Roma Virtus: J.Brown 28+13reb+6ast, A.Raffa 15+4reb+3ast, A.Landi 14+15reb, M.Chessa 13+2reb+2ast, G.Benetti 9+4reb, G.Maresca 7+4astLighthouse TR: K.Mays 26+3reb+6ast, A.Renzi 19+5reb+2ast, C.Scott 16+6reb+1ast, G.Ganeto 13+2reb+2ast, D.Filloy 6+7reb+4ast, K.Viglianisi 4+1reb+3ast

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fifteenth ranked Novipiu Casale and 16th ranked Scafati had identical 2-8 record. This time Novipiu Casale used a home court advantage and edged the opponent from Scafati 63-61 on Thursday night. Novipiu Casale dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Scafati's 26. Point guard Giovanni Tomassini (188-88) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. American forward Jordan Tolbert (201-92, college: SMU) contributed with 14 points and 5 rebounds (perfect from the field making all six shots) for the winners. Novipiu Casale's coach Marco Ramondino allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American power forward Linton Johnson (203-80, college: Tulane, agency: SPORTlab Agency) answered with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds and the former international power forward Tommaso Fantoni (204-85, agency: Players Group) added 10 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Scafati. Novipiu Casale maintains fifteenth place in A2 with 3-8 record. Loser Scafati keeps the sixteenth position with nine games lost. Novipiu Casale will face higher ranked Tortona (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Scafati will play against the league's leader Angelico Biella (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.Top scorers:Novipiu Casale: G.Tomassini 18+5reb+6ast, J.Tolbert 14+5reb+1ast, L.Severini 8+6reb+3ast, N.Martinoni 7+11reb, B.Blizzard 6+2reb+4ast, N.Natali 6+4reb+2astScafati: L.Johnson 15+10reb+1ast, T.Fantoni 10+10reb+2ast, L.Panzini 9+2reb+4ast, N.Crow 9+4reb, M.Santiangeli 8+2reb+1ast, C.Fischer 7+2reb+2ast

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Legnano (8-3) against twelfth ranked Latina Basket (5-6) on Thursday night. Visiting Legnano was defeated by Latina Basket in a tough game in Latina 85-90. Latina Basket looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Legnano's players. It was an exceptional evening for American point guard Keron DeShields (190-92, college: Tennessee St.) who led the winners and scored 15 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. Power forward Mitchell Poletti (205-88) accounted for 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side. Four Latina Basket players scored in double figures. American Nikolas Raivio (192-86, college: Portland, agency: Pensack Sports) came up with 30 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and swingman Matteo Frassineti (197-87) added 17 points respectively for Legnano in the defeat. Latina Basket maintains twelfth place in A2 with 5-6 record. Loser Legnano keeps the second position with three games lost. Latina Basket will meet at home Viola RC (#14) in the next round. Legnano will play against Agropoli (#13) and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Latina Basket: J.Arledge 21+5reb, M.Poletti 18+7reb+4ast, K.DeShields 15+6reb+9ast, R.Rullo 12+3reb+6ast, G.Allodi 11+5reb+1ast, B.Mascolo 8+6reb+3astLegnano: N.Raivio 30+4reb, M.Frassineti 17+1reb, M.Palermo 12+1reb+3ast, F.Maiocco 8+2reb, W.Mosley 6+10reb+1ast, F.Ihedioha 6+7reb+2ast

Serie A2 top team - Angelico Biella (9-2) had no problems winning another game on Thursday. This time they crushed sixth ranked FCM Ferentino (6-5) 100-80. Angelico Biella dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to FCM Ferentino's 36. They outrebounded FCM Ferentino 39-27 including 27 on the defensive glass. Angelico Biella looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. British forward Carl Wheatle (196-98) orchestrated the victory by scoring 29 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). The former international power forward Amedeo Tessitori (208-94) contributed with 21 points (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. Angelico Biella's coach Michele Carrea allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Marcus Gilbert (198-93, college: Fairfield) answered with 23 points and the other American import swingman Benjamin Raymond (198-87, college: Xavier) added 21 points in the effort for FCM Ferentino. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Angelico Biella maintains first place in A2 with 9-2 record. Loser FCM Ferentino dropped to the eighth position with five games lost. Angelico Biella will face Scafati (#16) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. FCM Ferentino will play against Agrigento (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Angelico Biella: C.Wheatle 29+7reb+1ast, A.Tessitori 21+1reb+2ast, L.Pollone 14+4reb, N.De Vico 13+5reb+4ast, J.Ferguson 11+5reb+5ast, M.Hall 5+8reb+6astFCM Ferentino: M.Gilbert 23+3reb+1ast, B.Raymond 21+4reb+2ast, B.Musso 10+9reb+4ast, L.Benvenuti 10+5reb+1ast, T.Carnovali 9, M.Imbro 5+3reb+2ast

The round was exceptionally exciting as three games ended with a tiny margin. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin. Let's start with guest Valmontone's (9-1) road victory over second-ranked Roma Luiss (8-2) 82-68 on Thursday evening. It was a key game for the second position in B. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward Luca Bisconti (206-82) who... [read more]

The round was exceptionally exciting as three games ended with a tiny margin. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Let's start with guest Valmontone's (9-1) road victory over second-ranked Roma Luiss (8-2) 82-68 on Thursday evening. It was a key game for the second position in B. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward Luca Bisconti (206-82) who scored 31 points and 6 rebounds (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field). Naturalized Argentinian swingman Manuel Carrizo (198-80, agency: Players Group) chipped in 9 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Center Eugenio Beretta (206-96) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Valmontone moved-up to second place in B. Roma Luiss at the other side dropped to the fourth position with two games lost. Valmontone are looking forward to face Catanzaro (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Roma Luiss' supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Roma to the arena Roma Vis Nova. Ninth-ranked Vicenza (4-7) made lots of trouble for first ranked Bergamo (9-2). The visitors from Bergamo managed to secure only two-point victory 70-68. However their fans expected much easier game. Tommaso Milani (190-88) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Alessandro Panni contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. point guard Daniele Demartini (187-84, agency: Players Group) answered with 17 points and 4 assists for Vicenza. Bergamo have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place in B with 9-2 record, which they share with Orzinuovi GaGa and Piacenza. Vicenza at the other side dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. They share it with Reggio Emilia. Bergamo will play against Faenza (#5) at home in the next round. Vicenza will play against Milano Urania (#13) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Very important is a road loss of second ranked San Miniato (7-4) against eleventh ranked Varese Robur (5-5) on Thursday night. Visiting San Miniato was defeated by Varese Robur in Varese 67-57. It was a great evening for Marco Santambrogio who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Olivier Giacomelli responded with 14 points and 5 rebounds. San Miniato's coach Federico Barsotti rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Varese Robur moved-up to tenth place in B. Loser San Miniato dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Lecco. Varese Robur will meet Domodossola (#15) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. San Miniato will play against Firenze Enic (#16) and hope to secure a win. An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Campli. First ranked Campli faced 3rd placed Bisceglie. Host Campli (9-1) defeated guests from Bisceglie (8-3) 66-54. It was an exceptional evening for Antonio Serroni who led the winners and scored 20 points and 5 rebounds. Campli maintains first place in B with 9-1 record. Bisceglie at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. Campli's next round opponent will be San Severo (#3) on the road, which may be the game of the day. Bisceglie will play against Rimini and hope to win that game. And finally the game worth to mention about is the one where eighth ranked Desio (5-6) won against 5th ranked Lecco (7-4) in a home game by 4 points 75-71 on Thursday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Lecco. The best player for the winners was Marco Torgano who scored 26 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Desio maintains eighth place in B with 5-6 record, which they share with Padova. Loser Lecco dropped to the seventh position with four games lost. Desio will face San Vendemiano (#14) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game.

Other games of round 11 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: In B Fiorentina was defeated by Valsesia in a road game 68-66. Omegna smashed Bottegone at home 101-73. Siena Virtus was destroyed by Cecina on the opponent's court 78-57. USE Basket outscored Sangiorgese in a home game 94-71. Piombino recorded a loss to Firenze Enic on the road 74-57. Oleggio defeated Montecatini on its own court 94-86. Domodossola was beaten by Moncalieri in a road game 67-62. Volpino AltoSeb. was destroyed by Cento at home 60-87. Milano Urania unfortunately lost to Faenza on the opponent's court 78-79. Orzinuovi GaGa rolled over Sestu in a home game 87-59. Iseo was crushed by Piacenza on the road 55-100. Crema beat San Vendemiano on its own court 86-75. Padova destroyed Reggio Emilia in a road game 82-62. Patti managed to outperform Barcellona at home 79-72. Roma S.Azzurra managed to beat Maddaloni on the opponent's court 77-70. Scauri defeated Cefalu in a home game 84-79. Napoli Cuore beat Teramo on the road 65-56. Palestrina destroyed Cassino on its own court 98-73. Roma Vis Nova unfortunately lost to Viterbo SA in a road game 68-77. Isernia managed to beat Valdiceppo at home 70-67. Porto S.Elpidio was crushed by Rimini on the opponent's court 88-67. Winless Venafro was smashed by San Severo in a home game 53-78. Pescara won against Matera on the road 90-82. Senigallia unfortunately lost to Giulianova on its own court 73-82. Ortona was rolled over Montegrano in Montenegrano 60-80. The best stats of 11th round was 26 points and 5 rebounds by Leonardo Ciribeni of San Severo.

Group A

There was no surprise when 9th ranked Fiorentina (5-5) was edged on the road by fifth ranked Valsesia (7-4) 68-66 on Thursday. However just two-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Valsesia made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was point guard Nicola Savoldelli (185-97, agency: Octagon Europe) who scored 21 points and 4 assists. Guard Flavio Gay (183-98) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds. Point guard Giacomo Bloise (183-90) produced 22 points and 4 assists and swingman Davide Poltroneri (195-85) added 19 points respectively for the guests. Valsesia moved-up to third place in B, which they share with Lecco. Loser Fiorentina keeps the ninth position with five games lost. Valsesia will face Sangiorgese (#14) in San Giorgio in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Fiorentina will play at home against Oleggio (#12) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Valsesia: N.Savoldelli 21+4reb+4ast, F.Gay 14+7reb, M.Molteni 9+1reb, M.Cozzoli 9+1reb, N.Gatti 5+6reb+3ast, E.Caversazio 4+3reb+3astFiorentina: G.Bloise 22+4reb+4ast, D.Poltroneri 19+4reb+2ast, A.Longobardi 11+3reb+1ast, D.Rosignoli 6+5reb+1ast, M.Motta 5+1reb, A.Mazzucchelli 3+4reb+2ast

No shocking result in a game when first ranked Omegna (8-3) smashed at home 13th ranked Bottegone (4-7) 101-73 on Thursday. Omegna looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Bottegone's players. The best player for the winners was point guard Alexander Simoncelli (186-86, agency: Octagon Europe) who scored 16 points and 8 assists. Naturalized Argentinian center Diego Corral (205-86, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. Omegna's coach Filippo Faina felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Edoardo Fontana (188-98) produced 18 points and 5 assists and Daniele Toscano (196-93, agency: Players Group) added 13 points respectively for the guests. Five Omegna and four Bottegone players scored in double figures. Omegna maintains first place in B with 8-3 record, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Bottegone dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. Omegna will face Piombino (#8) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bottegone will play against Montecatiniterme and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Omegna: G.Gurini 21+2reb+1ast, D.Corral 18+5reb+2ast, A.Simoncelli 16+4reb+8ast, F.Fratto 12+5reb+3ast, M.Arrigoni 12+7reb+2ast, G.Gasparin 11+2reb+2astBottegone: E.Fontana 18+3reb+5ast, D.Toscano 13+4reb+1ast, M.Divac 11+4reb, F.Toppo 10+3reb, L.Maspero 7+4reb+2ast, R.Marconato 6+2reb+1ast

Very expected game when 10th ranked Siena Virtus (5-6) were rolled over on the road by third ranked Cecina (7-3) 78-57 on Thursday. Cecina had a 35-23 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was power forward Andrea Spera (203-96) who had a double-double by scoring 19 points and 19 rebounds. Swingman Saverio Mazzantini (194-95) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds. Four Cecina players scored in double figures. Guard Ferdinando Nasello (194-95) produced 9 points and 8 rebounds and center Lorenzo Bruno (198-91) added 9 points respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Cecina moved-up to second place in B. Newly promoted Siena Virtus dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. Cecina will face USE Basket (#7) in Empoli in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Siena Virtus will play at home against Moncalieri and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Cecina: S.Mazzantini 22+10reb+3ast, A.Spera 19+19reb+1ast, S.Lasagni 18+5reb+4ast, L.Zaccariello 11+4reb+2ast, A.Danna 5+3reb+7ast, G.Agosti 3+1rebSiena Virtus: G.Olleia 11+3reb+1ast, L.Bruno 9+4reb+2ast, S.Lenardon 9+2reb, F.Nasello 9+8reb+2ast, F.Bianchi 8+3reb, M.Neri 4+4reb

Rather predictable result in Empoli where eighth ranked USE Basket (6-4) outscored 12th ranked Sangiorgese (4-7) 94-71 on Thursday. USE Basket made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was forward Filippo Mascagni (195-93) who scored 17 points. Gianni Terrosi (191-89) chipped in 11 points and 7 rebounds. Five USE Basket players scored in double figures. Point guard Filippo Rossi (190-98) produced 9 points and 8 rebounds and guard Simone Tomasini (196-93) added 14 points respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. USE Basket moved-up to seventh place in B. Loser Sangiorgese dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. USE Basket will face league's second-placed Cecina on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sangiorgese will play against Valsesia (#3) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:USE Basket: F.Mascagni 17+2reb+2ast, M.Bei 15+2reb+1ast, F.Giannini 13+1reb+5ast, D.Sesoldi 13+3reb+2ast, G.Terrosi 11+7reb+1ast, A.Ghizzani 9+3reb+2astSangiorgese: S.Tomasini 14+2reb+2ast, A.Tommei 11+2reb+1ast, F.Gorreri 10+3reb, F.Rossi 9+8reb+1ast, A.Priuli 8+5reb, S.Nuclich 8+1reb

Very important is a road loss of second ranked San Miniato (7-4) against eleventh ranked Varese Robur (5-5) on Thursday night. Visiting San Miniato was defeated by Varese Robur in Varese 67-57. They made 21-of-24 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game. Varese Robur outrebounded San Miniato 46-23 including a 37-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great evening for point guard Marco Santambrogio (188-88) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Swingman Luca Matteucci (200-85) helped adding 12 points and 8 rebounds. Naturalized Swiss Olivier Giacomelli (198-95, agency: Players Group) responded with 14 points and 5 rebounds and guard Francesco Stefanelli (190-95) scored 15 points. San Miniato's coach Federico Barsotti rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Varese Robur moved-up to tenth place in B. Loser San Miniato dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Lecco. Varese Robur will meet Domodossola (#15) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. San Miniato will play against Firenze Enic (#16) and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Varese Robur: M.Santambrogio 23+6reb+5ast, F.Bolzonella 14+2reb+1ast, L.Matteucci 12+8reb+2ast, G.Pagani 8+7reb, A.Sabbadini 5+7reb+3ast, S.Innocenti 3+4reb+1astSan Miniato: F.Stefanelli 15+2reb+1ast, O.Giacomelli 14+5reb+2ast, S.Perin 12+2ast, R.Bertolini 6+2reb+1ast, A.Zita 4+2reb+2ast, G.Giarelli 3+2reb+1ast

There was an upset when higher ranked Piombino (6-5) was defeated on the road by sixteenth ranked Firenze Enic (1-10) 74-57 on Thursday. Firenze Enic forced 19 Piombino turnovers and outrebounded them 26-14. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 5 passes made by Piombino's players. The best player for the winners was center Lorenzo Galmarini (200-95) who scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Diego Terenzi (191-95) chipped in 19 points. Point guard Simone Bonfiglio (181-88) produced 12 points and 4 assists and naturalized Serbian forward Marko Jovancic (195-93) added 11 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Newly promoted Firenze Enic maintains sixteenth place in B with 1-10 record, which they share with Iseo. Loser Piombino dropped to the eighth position with five games lost. Firenze Enic will face higher ranked San Miniato (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Top scorers:Firenze Enic: L.Galmarini 21+7reb+1ast, D.Terenzi 19+3ast, G.Rugolo 12+5reb+1ast, L.Passoni 6+5reb+3ast, L.Marmugi 6+3reb+1ast, N.Goretti 4+3reb+3astPiombino: S.Bonfiglio 12+2reb+4ast, C.Bianchi 11, M.Jovancic 11+3reb, E.Pedroni 7, L.Malfatti 6+1reb, R.Romano 5+4reb

There was a surprise result when fourteenth ranked Oleggio (5-6) won against at home 4th placed Montecatiniterme (6-4) 94-86 on Thursday. Oleggio made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was forward Edoardo Gallazzi (200-86) who scored 25 points and 5 assists. Guard Filiberto Dri (190-89) chipped in 20 points. Point guard Valerio Circosta (188-87) produced 24 points and point guard Guido Meini (188-79) added 19 points respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Oleggio moved-up to eighth place in B, which they share with Desio and Padova. Newly promoted Montecatiniterme dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. Oleggio will face Fiorentina (#9) in Firenze in the next round. Top scorers:Oleggio: E.Gallazzi 25+3reb+5ast, F.Dri 20+4reb+2ast, S.Colombo 11+4reb+1ast, A.Resca 11+1reb+3ast, F.Testa 11+5reb, S.Hidalgo 9+5reb+4astMontecatini: V.Circosta 24+2ast, G.Meini 19+3reb+1ast, T.Bianchi 13+8reb+1ast, N.Rizzitiello 12+4reb+3ast, M.Petrucci 7+5reb+1ast, E.Di Giacomo 6+2reb

There was no surprise when 15th ranked Domodossola (3-8) was defeated on the road by seventh ranked Moncalieri (6-4) 67-62 on Thursday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Moncalieri made 22-of-27 free shots (81.5 percent) during the game. Moncalieri outrebounded Domodossola 42-30 including a 33-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Domodossola was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward Francesco Conti (205-83) who scored 17 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Forward Riccardo Coviello (197-88) chipped in 7 points and 12 rebounds. Power forward Francesco Tuci (204-92) produced a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds and swingman Luca Falconi (190-91) added 20 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Moncalieri moved-up to fifth place in B. Newly promoted Domodossola dropped to the twelfth position with eight games lost. Moncalieri will face Siena Virtus (#11) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Domodossola will play against Varese Robur and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Moncalieri: F.Conti 17+4reb, L.Gioria 11+6reb, A.Fabrizio Smorto 11+1ast, D.Merletto 10+8ast, R.Coviello 7+12reb+2ast, K.Treier 5+6rebDomodossola: L.Falconi 20+3reb+1ast, F.Tuci 13+13reb+3ast, C.Bianconi 8+3reb, M.Realini 7+3reb, F.Petricca 6+1reb, P.Hidalgo 5+5reb+3ast

gschID: 490938

Group B

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Cento (8-3) smashed on the road 12th ranked Volpino AltoSeb. (3-8) 87-60 on Thursday. Cento dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Volpino AltoSeb.'s 30 and made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Volpino AltoSeb. 45-31 including 32 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was power forward Matteo Botteghi (203-95) who scored 12 points and 9 rebounds. Forward Luca Pignatti (198-86) chipped in 8 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. Four Cento players scored in double figures. Point guard Francesco Belloni (193-94) produced 14 points and 6 rebounds and the former international swingman Andrea Pilotti (195-80, agency: Players Group) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Cento maintains fourth place in B with 8-3 record, which they share with Faenza and Crema. Loser Volpino AltoSeb. keeps the twelfth position with eight games lost. Cento will face league's second-placed Piacenza at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Volpino AltoSeb. will play against Padova (#9) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Cento: D.Andreaus 13+2reb+1ast, M.Botteghi 12+9reb, L.D'Alessandro 12+7reb, L.Bedetti 12+5reb+1ast, L.Brighi 11+2reb+2ast, A.Chiera 11+6reb+1astVolpino AltoSeb.: F.Belloni 14+6reb+2ast, A.Pilotti 11+7reb, S.Stanzani 9+7reb, A.Esposito 7+4reb, M.Coltro 5+1reb+1ast, M.Borghetti 5

Very expected game when 13th ranked Milano Urania (3-8) was edged on the road by sixth ranked Faenza (8-3) 79-78 on Thursday. However just one-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The best player for the winners was swingman Daniele Casadei (199-81) who scored 22 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Emanuele Pini (197-95) chipped in 16 points. The former international power forward Andrea Paleari (202-81) produced 28 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and forward Tommaso Ingrosso (206-92, college: W.Texas CC) added 12 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Four Faenza and five Milano Urania players scored in double figures. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Faenza. They moved-up to fourth place in B, which they share with Cento and Crema. Milano Urania lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the twelfth position with eight games lost. Faenza will face league's leader Bergamo on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Milano Urania will play against Vicenza (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Faenza: D.Casadei 22+9reb+4ast, E.Pini 16+2reb+1ast, R.Iattoni 15+3reb+1ast, A.Donadoni 10+6reb+1ast, A.Maccaferri 8+1reb+7ast, J.Silimbani 7+2reb+4astMilano Urania: A.Paleari 28+5reb+2ast, L.Bartoli 15+1reb+1ast, T.Ingrosso 12+6reb+1ast, N.Gorla 11+2reb+2ast, S.Ferrarese 10+7ast, M.Lagana 2+3reb+2ast

Ninth-ranked Vicenza (4-7) made lots of trouble for first ranked Bergamo (9-2). The visitors from Bergamo managed to secure only two-point victory 70-68. However their fans expected much easier game. Tommaso Milani (190-88) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Guard Alessandro Panni (189-91) contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four Bergamo players scored in double figures. Point guard Daniele Demartini (187-84, agency: Players Group) answered with 17 points and 4 assists and point guard Pietro Montanari (195-91) added 9 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Vicenza. Bergamo have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place in B with 9-2 record, which they share with Orzinuovi GaGa and Piacenza. Vicenza at the other side dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. They share it with Reggio Emilia. Bergamo will play against Faenza (#5) at home in the next round. Vicenza will play against Milano Urania (#13) and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Bergamo: M.Jose Ghersetti 17+3reb+1ast, A.Panni 16+5reb+2ast, T.Milani 15+7reb+6ast, N.Cazzolato 12+2reb+4ast, R.Pullazi 8+5reb, S.Berti 2+5reb+1astVicenza: D.Demartini 17+4reb+4ast, F.Rizzetto 12+2reb, L.Ianes 11+7reb, U.Campiello 9+9reb, P.Montanari 9+7reb+2ast, A.Campiello 8+1reb+4ast

Very predictable result when third ranked Orzinuovi GaGa (9-2) outscored at home 15th ranked Sestu (2-9) 87-59 on Thursday. Orzinuovi GaGa made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Sestu's players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Orzinuovi GaGa made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was center Giorgio Piunti (206-90, agency: SPORTlab Agency) who scored 24 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks. Guard Antonio Ruggiero (190-81, agency: SPORTlab Agency) chipped in 15 points and 7 rebounds. Four Orzinuovi GaGa players scored in double figures. Center Davide Varrone (206-91, agency: Players Group) produced 7 points and 10 rebounds and swingman Romeo Trionfo (197-85, agency: Octagon Europe) added 13 points respectively for the guests. Sestu's coach Marco Sassaro gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the third consecutive win for Orzinuovi GaGa. They keep a position of B leader, which they share with Bergamo and Piacenza. Sestu lost their fourth game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the fifteenth place with nine games lost. Orzinuovi GaGa will face Crema (#6) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Sestu will play against Lecco (#7) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Orzinuovi GaGa: G.Piunti 24+8reb+3ast, A.Ruggiero 15+7reb+2ast, M.Toure 14+1reb+4ast, R.Valenti 11+5reb+2ast, C.Cantone 10+1reb+6ast, D.Zambon 6+11reb+1astSestu: R.Trionfo 13+2reb, D.Varrone 7+10reb+1ast, G.Laguzzi 7+4reb, F.Villani 7+4reb+2ast, N.Elia 6+2reb+1ast, M.Pilo 6+4reb+1ast

Not a big story in a game when 16th ranked Iseo (1-10) was outplayed on the road by second ranked Piacenza (9-2) 100-55 on Thursday. Piacenza dominated down low during the game scoring 44 of its points in the paint compared to Iseo's 20. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Iseo was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was swingman Mattia Magrini (190-93) who scored 23 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Point guard Giacomo Sanguinetti (180-90, agency: SPORTlab Agency) chipped in 20 points. Four Piacenza players scored in double figures. Gianluigi Prestini (200-89) produced 11 points and 8 rebounds and guard Diego Crescini (189-87) added 14 points respectively for the guests. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Piacenza. They keep a position of B leader, which they share with Bergamo and Orzinuovi GaGa. Iseo lost their sixth game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the sixteenth place with ten games lost. Piacenza will face Cento (#4) on the road in the next round. Iseo will play against Reggio Emilia (#11) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Piacenza: M.Magrini 23+5reb+6ast, G.Sanguinetti 20+1reb+1ast, E.Leonzio 13+2reb+3ast, M.Samoggia 12+3reb, M.Soragna 8+3reb+2ast, D.Banti 8+6rebIseo: D.Crescini 14+2reb+2ast, G.Prestini 11+8reb+3ast, S.Scuratti 7+4reb, G.Veronesi 7+1reb+2ast, G.Giorgi 7+3reb, M.Azzola 6+2reb

And finally the game worth to mention about is the one where eighth ranked Desio (5-6) won against 5th ranked Lecco (7-4) in a home game by 4 points 75-71 on Thursday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Lecco. Desio looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was forward Marco Torgano (197-91, agency: SPORTlab Agency) who scored 26 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Forward Andrea Negri (193-88) chipped in 10 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Power forward Jacopo Balanzoni (203-93, agency: Interperformances) produced 11 points, 8 assists and 6 steals and power forward Gaetano Spera (210-93, college: St.Peter's, agency: Players Group) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Four Lecco players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Desio maintains eighth place in B with 5-6 record, which they share with Padova. Loser Lecco dropped to the seventh position with four games lost. Desio will face San Vendemiano (#14) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Top scorers:Desio: M.Torgano 26+3reb+3ast, A.Negri 10+5reb+8ast, F.Politi 9+6reb+3ast, A.Mazzoleni 7+2reb+2ast, S.Casati 7+2ast, D.Verri 7+6rebLecco: G.Siberna 16+5reb, G.Spera 15+5reb+1ast, M.Peroni 11+3reb+1ast, J.Balanzoni 11+4reb+8ast, E.Urbani 10+2reb, D.Todeschini 7+2reb+8ast

Everything went according to plan when seventh ranked Crema (8-3) won against at home 14th ranked San Vendemiano (3-8) 86-75 on Thursday. Crema forced 22 San Vendemiano turnovers. San Vendemiano was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was power forward Thomas De Min (203-86) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. Point guard Davide Liberati (190-91, agency: Players Group) chipped in 21 points and 4 assists. Swingman Cesare Barbon (192-98) produced 17 points and swingman Daniele Masocco (188-93) added 8 points and 5 assists respectively for the guests. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Crema moved-up to fourth place in B, which they share with Cento and Faenza. Newly promoted San Vendemiano dropped to the twelfth position with eight games lost. Crema will face higher ranked Orzinuovi GaGa (#3) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. San Vendemiano will play against Desio (#8) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Crema: D.Liberati 21+2reb+4ast, T.De Min 20+10reb+1ast, A.Petronio 11+3reb+2ast, L.Tardito 7+2reb, M.Pasqualin 7+2reb+1ast, D.Manuelli 6+1reb+4astSan Vendemiano: C.Barbon 17+1reb, A.Carlesso 10+3reb+1ast, A.Muner 10+3reb+1ast, D.Masocco 8+3reb+5ast, L.Varaschin 7+4reb, A.Locci 6+2reb

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both tenth ranked Padova and 11th ranked Reggio Emilia had identical 4-6 record. But Reggio Emilia was not able to use a home court advantage and was crushed by the opponent from Padova 82-62 on Thursday night. Padova outrebounded Reggio Emilia 38-19 including a 30-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was forward Marco Lazzaro (198-92) who scored 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Power forward Claudio Nobile (206-82) chipped in 10 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Padova players scored in double figures. Padova's coach Massimo Friso used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Swingman Gioacchino Chiappelli (195-91) produced 21 points and power forward Federico Pugi (206-85) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. Padova (5-6) moved-up to eighth place in B, which they share with Desio. Reggio Emilia lost their fourth game in a row. Newly promoted team dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. Padova will face Volpino AltoSeb. (#12) at home in the next round. Reggio Emilia will play against Iseo and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Padova: M.Lazzaro 17+6reb+4ast, S.Stojkov 14+3reb+3ast, F.Schiavon 13+2reb+1ast, G.Salvato 11+4reb+1ast, J.Carlos Canelo 11+5reb+6ast, C.Nobile 10+8reb+4astReggio Emilia: G.Chiappelli 21+3reb+1ast, F.Pugi 13+2reb+2ast, F.Veccia 9+4ast, L.Malagutti 7+7reb+1ast, E.Germani 7+4reb+2ast, M.Farioli 4+3reb+1ast

gschID: 491055

Group C

Catanzaro - Forli Tigers

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both tenth ranked Padova and 11th ranked Reggio Emilia had identical 4-6 record. But Reggio Emilia was not able to use a home court advantage and was crushed by the opponent from Padova 82-62 on Thursday night. Padova outrebounded Reggio Emilia 38-19 including a 30-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was forward Marco Lazzaro (198-92) who scored 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Power forward Claudio Nobile (206-82) chipped in 10 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Padova players scored in double figures. Padova's coach Massimo Friso used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Swingman Gioacchino Chiappelli (195-91) produced 21 points and power forward Federico Pugi (206-85) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. Padova (5-6) moved-up to eighth place in B, which they share with Desio. Reggio Emilia lost their fourth game in a row. Newly promoted team dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. Padova will face Volpino AltoSeb. (#12) at home in the next round. Reggio Emilia will play against Iseo and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Padova: M.Lazzaro 17+6reb+4ast, S.Stojkov 14+3reb+3ast, F.Schiavon 13+2reb+1ast, G.Salvato 11+4reb+1ast, J.Carlos Canelo 11+5reb+6ast, C.Nobile 10+8reb+4astReggio Emilia: G.Chiappelli 21+3reb+1ast, F.Pugi 13+2reb+2ast, F.Veccia 9+4ast, L.Malagutti 7+7reb+1ast, E.Germani 7+4reb+2ast, M.Farioli 4+3reb+1ast

There was a surprise result when thirteenth ranked Patti (3-8) defeated at home higher ranked Basket Barcellona (7-3) 79-72 on Thursday. Patti forced 20 Basket Barcellona turnovers. The best player for the winners was guard Tindaro Gullo (175-86) who scored 25 points, 7 assists and 4 steals. Center Patrisio Cicive (205-91) chipped in 22 points (perfect from the field making all nine shots !!!). Power forward Luigi Brunetti (205-88) produced 20 points and 5 rebounds and guard Daniele Grilli (191-87) added 19 points and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Four Basket Barcellona players scored in double figures. Patti moved-up to twelfth place in B, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Basket Barcellona keeps the fifth position with three games lost. Patti will face Forli Tigers (#15) on the road in the next round. Basket Barcellona will play against Palestrina (#3) and will have a slim chance for a victory.Top scorers:Patti: T.Gullo 25+3reb+7ast, P.Cicive 22+4reb, G.Busco 14+3reb+3ast, L.Bolletta 7+4reb+2ast, G.Costantino 4+4reb+4ast, L.Babilodze 4+2reb+1astBarcellona: L.Brunetti 20+5reb+2ast, D.Grilli 19+3reb+4ast, M.De Angelis 13+2reb+5ast, Y.Jefferson Rodriguez 12+4reb+5ast, M.Teghini 4, F.Stefanini 4+3reb+2ast

Rather expected game when 15th ranked Maddaloni (1-9) was defeated at home by twelfth ranked Roma S.Azzurra (4-7) 77-70 on Thursday. Roma S.Azzurra well out of reach of Maddaloni shooting 93.1 percent from the field. They also forced 19 Maddaloni turnovers. The best player for the winners was point guard Emanuele Trapani (181-99) who scored 32 points (on 11-of-12 shooting from the field). Center Andrea Antonaci (202-98) chipped in 18 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Roma S.Azzurra's coach Germano D'Arcangeli used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Guard Ernesto Carrichiello (197-84) produced 19 points and 9 assists and point guard Giangiacomo De Vincenzo (180-94) added 15 points respectively for the hosts. Roma S.Azzurra moved-up to tenth place in B, which they share with Vicenza and Reggio Emilia. Loser Maddaloni dropped to the sixteenth position with nine games lost. Roma S.Azzurra will face higher ranked Scauri (#8) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Maddaloni will play against Teramo (#7) and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Roma S.Azzurra: E.Trapani 32+1reb+3ast, A.Antonaci 18+1reb+4ast, D.Pazin 10+2ast, B.Seye 4, F.Gazzillo 4+2ast, K.Cassar 3Maddaloni: E.Carrichiello 19+9ast, G.De Vincenzo 15+3ast, A.Guagliardi 13+1ast, G.Luongo 9+1ast, G.Esposito 6+1reb+2ast, J.Giammo' 5+1reb

Not a big story in a game when 7th ranked Teramo (4-5) was defeated at home by first ranked Napoli Cuore (10-1) 65-56 on Thursday. Strangely Teramo outrebounded Napoli Cuore 47-33 including 33 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was Serbian swingman Stefan Nikolic (198-97) who had a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds. Point guard Roberto Maggio (183-90) chipped in 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Center Daniele Tomasello (205-93) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds and guard Francesco Papa (196-95) added 12 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Newly promoted Napoli Cuore maintains first place in B with 10-1 record. Teramo at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the seventh position with five games lost. Napoli Cuore will face Cassino (#6) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Teramo will play against Maddaloni and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Napoli Cuore: R.Maggio 16+5reb+4ast, N.Visnjic 13+5reb+1ast, A.Ronconi 12, S.Nikolic 12+12reb+2ast, M.Mastroianni 5+7reb+2ast, A.Barsanti 5+4reb+5astTeramo: D.Tomasello 20+13reb, F.Papa 12+10reb+2ast, S.Salamina 9+2reb+2ast, G.Tessitore 7+6reb, S.Lucarelli 4+3reb+2ast, A.LaGioia 2+6reb+3ast

Let's start with guest Valmontone's (9-1) road victory over second-ranked Roma Luiss (8-2) 82-68 on Thursday evening. It was a key game for the second position in B. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward Luca Bisconti (206-82) who scored 31 points and 6 rebounds (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field). Naturalized Argentinian swingman Manuel Carrizo (198-80, agency: Players Group) chipped in 9 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Four Valmontone players scored in double figures. Center Eugenio Beretta (206-96) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Piero De Dominicis (193-95) added 11 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Valmontone moved-up to second place in B. Roma Luiss at the other side dropped to the fourth position with two games lost. Valmontone are looking forward to face Catanzaro (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Roma Luiss' supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Roma to the arena Roma Vis Nova. Top scorers:Valmontone: L.Bisconti 31+6reb, J.Manuel Caceres 15+7reb+2ast, A.Martino 11+5reb+1ast, A.De Fabritiis 10+8reb+2ast, M.Carrizo 9+9reb+6ast, F.Guarino 4+2reb+3astRoma Luiss: E.Beretta 18+14reb+4ast, M.Bonaccorso 11+3reb, P.De Dominicis 11+9reb, F.Faragalli Serroni 8+7reb+2ast, A.Scuderi 7+1reb+4ast, T.Faccenda 4+1ast

Everything went according to plan in Roma where fourth ranked Palestrina (9-2) outleveled 6th ranked Cassino (7-4) 98-73 on Thursday. Palestrina shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 56.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Cassino's players. The best player for the winners was point guard Gianmarco Rossi (182-90) who scored 25 points and 7 assists. Forward Filippo Gagliardo (206-78, agency: Octagon Europe) chipped in 12 points and 5 rebounds. The former international power forward Simone Bagnoli (205-81) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds and power forward Valerio Marsili (200-87) added 13 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. Five Palestrina and four Cassino players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Palestrina keeps a position of B leader, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Cassino keeps the sixth place with four games lost. Palestrina will face Basket Barcellona (#5) on the road in the next round. Cassino will play against the league's leader Napoli Cuore and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Palestrina: G.Rossi 25+4reb+7ast, S.Rischia 14+5ast, F.Gagliardo 12+5reb+2ast, R.Pederzini 11+3reb+2ast, M.Drigo 10+4reb+4ast, L.Montanari 7+2rebCassino: M.Del Testa 16+3reb, A.Giampaoli 15+1reb+3ast, V.Marsili 13+7reb+1ast, S.Bagnoli 12+12reb, G.Valesin 8+1reb+2ast, B.Sergio 4+2ast

Group D

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when thirteenth ranked Isernia (4-7) edged at home 12th ranked Valdiceppo (3-7) 70-67 on Thursday. They outrebounded Valdiceppo 43-28 including 33 on the defensive glass. Isernia looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was naturalized Albanian power forward Klaudio Patani (197-96) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. Point guard Marco Salari (184-96) chipped in 22 points and 9 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Isernia's coach Nino Sanfilippo used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. Guard Lorenzo Negrotti (192-87) produced 12 points and 7 rebounds and guard Matteo Orlandi (190-91) added 12 points respectively for the guests. Isernia moved-up to tenth place in B, which they share with Vicenza and Reggio Emilia. Newly promoted Valdiceppo dropped to the fourteenth position with seven games lost. Isernia will face Monteroni (#15) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Valdiceppo will play against Pescara and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Isernia: M.Salari 22+2reb+9ast, M.Norcino 19+2reb+4ast, K.Patani 17+14reb+4ast, G.Maria Triggiani 5+5reb, L.Gazineo 4+6reb+1ast, M.Melchiorri 2+1rebValdiceppo: L.Negrotti 12+7reb+2ast, U.Meschini 12+1ast, M.Orlandi 12+3reb+1ast, A.Giovagnoli 8+4reb+1ast, A.Panzieri 6+5reb+2ast, F.Meccoli Matejca 6+2reb

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Campli. First ranked Campli faced 3rd placed Bisceglie. Host Campli (9-1) defeated guests from Bisceglie (8-3) 66-54. Campli forced 19 Bisceglie turnovers. It was an exceptional evening for guard Antonio Serroni (192-87) who led the winners and scored 20 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Simone Gatti (202-82) accounted for 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. Four Campli players scored in double figures. Riccardo Antonelli came up with 9 points and 5 rebounds and swingman Alessandro Poti (193-91) added 11 points respectively for Bisceglie in the defeat. Campli maintains first place in B with 9-1 record. Bisceglie at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. Campli's next round opponent will be San Severo (#3) on the road, which may be the game of the day. Bisceglie will play against Rimini and hope to win that game. Top scorers:Campli: A.Serroni 20+5reb+3ast, S.Gatti 19+6reb, B.Duranti 11+6reb+1ast, A.Serafini 10+12reb+2ast, R.Ponziani 4+2reb, R.Bottioni 2+2reb+6astBisceglie: A.Poti 11+4reb, R.Antonelli 9+5reb+1ast, S.Bruno 8+3reb+2ast, M.Cucco 7+4reb, E.Di Emidio 7+4reb+2ast, R.Bartolozzi 6+6reb

There was a minor upset when 4th placed Porto S.Elpidio (7-4) was rolled over on the road by seventh ranked Rimini (6-4) 88-67 on Thursday. Rimini dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Porto S.Elpidio's 18. The best player for the winners was point guard Luca Pesaresi (180-89) who scored 24 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Swingman Leonardo Battistini (194-95) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. Swingman Fabio Lovatti (192-89) produced 15 points and 8 rebounds and forward Diego Torresi (200-92) added 9 points respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Rimini maintains seventh place in B with 6-4 record. Loser Porto S.Elpidio dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. Rimini will face higher ranked Bisceglie (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Top scorers:Rimini: L.Pesaresi 24+5reb+6ast, L.Battistini 20+8reb+2ast, E.Tiberti 12+9reb+1ast, D.Meluzzi 8+2reb+4ast, P.Busetto 7+2reb+2ast, J.Aglio 7+2reb+2astPorto S.Elpidio: F.Lovatti 15+8reb+2ast, A.Brighi 11, A.Cacace 10+1reb, D.Torresi 9+4reb, S.Fiorito 8+2reb+1ast, M.Romani 7+5reb

Very predictable result when fifth ranked San Severo (8-3) outscored on the road bottom-ranked Venafro (0-11) 78-53 on Thursday. San Severo dominated down low during the game scoring 42 of its points in the paint compared to Venafro's 20. They outrebounded Venafro 43-25 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. Venafro was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was guard Leonardo Ciribeni (190-92) who scored 26 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Mauro Torresi Lelli (189-84) chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four San Severo players scored in double figures. Point guard Marco Rossi (183-81, agency: SPORTlab Agency) produced 16 points and 5 rebounds and guard Ferdinando Smorra (184-88) added 6 points respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. San Severo moved-up to third place in B, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Venafro still closes the standings with 11 games lost. San Severo will face league's leader Campli at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Venafro will play against Giulianova (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.Top scorers:San Severo: L.Ciribeni 26+5reb+3ast, M.Torresi Lelli 13+6reb+1ast, I.Morgillo 11+6reb, A.Cecchetti 10+8reb+1ast, M.Di Marco 9+1reb+7ast, A.Quarisa 6+9reb+1astVenafro: M.Rossi 16+5reb, O.Kuschev 7+3reb, F.Smorra 6+4reb+1ast, G.Moretti 6+2reb, A.Prete 5+4reb+1ast, M.Tamburrini 4+2reb

Not a big story in a game when 8th ranked Matera (5-5) was defeated at home by sixth ranked Pescara (7-4) 90-82 on Thursday. Pescara forced 19 Matera turnovers. The best player for the winners was guard Simone Pepe (184-93, agency: SPORTlab Agency) who scored 32 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Emidio Di Donato (199-92) chipped in 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Point guard Alessandro Grande (185-94, agency: Two Points) produced 10 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists and the former international Federico Lestini (204-83, agency: SPORTlab Agency) added 19 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Five Pescara and four Matera players scored in double figures. Pescara moved-up to fifth place in B, which they share with Lecco. Loser Matera keeps the eighth position with five games lost. Pescara will face Valdiceppo (#14) in Perugia in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Matera will play on the road against Taranto (#13) and hope to win that game and get promotion back to the Serie A2 just one year after relegation. Top scorers:Pescara: S.Pepe 32+5reb+2ast, A.Capitanelli 14+5reb+1ast, E.Di Donato 11+7reb+6ast, P.Pelliccione 10+2reb+2ast, S.Rajola 10+6reb+5ast, M.Bini 10+3reb+1astMatera: G.Zampolli 21+1reb+1ast, F.Lestini 19+5reb, S.Laudoni 14+6reb, G.Cantagalli 12+2reb+1ast, A.Grande 10+8reb+7ast, R.Nicola 6+15reb+2ast

Everything went according to plan when ninth ranked Giulianova (5-6) won against on the road 11th ranked Senigallia (3-7) 82-73 on Thursday. They outrebounded Senigallia 37-26 including 28 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was swingman Simone De Angelis (201-86) who scored 19 points and 5 rebounds. Point guard Danilo Gallerini (185-80) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. Nicola Bastone (195-92) produced 18 points and 7 rebounds and guard Andrea Maggiotto (194-88) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the hosts. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Giulianova moved-up to eighth place in B, which they share with Desio and Padova. Loser Senigallia dropped to the twelfth position with seven games lost. Giulianova will face Venafro (#16) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Senigallia will play against Ortona (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Giulianova: S.De Angelis 19+5reb, D.Gallerini 15+6reb+2ast, S.Colonnelli 15+2reb+2ast, A.Ricci 13+5reb+2ast, L.De Paoli 11+4reb+1ast, R.Rosa 6+8reb+1astSenigallia: N.Bastone 18+7reb+3ast, M.Gnaccarini 16+2reb+3ast, A.Maggiotto 12+5reb+4ast, F.Giampieri 11+2reb+1ast, M.Caverni 10+3reb+2ast, M.Pierantoni 6+2reb

There was no surprise in Montenegrano where 10th ranked Ortona (4-7) was crushed by second ranked Montegrano (9-1) 80-60 on Thursday. Montegrano dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Ortona's 28. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was forward Giorgio Broglia (198-86, agency: Interperformances) who scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian center Marcelo Dip (205-84, agency: Players Group) chipped in 11 points and 7 rebounds. Four Montegrano players scored in double figures. Montegrano's coach Gabriele Ceccarelli used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Power forward Gianluca Di Carmine (200-86) produced 9 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized Argentinian guard Ariel Svoboda (192-85, agency: Interperformances) added 16 points respectively for the guests. Montegrano maintains second place in B with 9-1 record having just one point less than leader Bergamo. Loser Ortona keeps the tenth position with seven games lost. Montegrano will face Porto S.Elpidio (#6) on the road in the next round. Ortona will play against Senigallia (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Montegrano: G.Broglia 15+6reb+3ast, F.Bedetti 12+6reb+1ast, O.Gueye 12+3reb+1ast, M.Dip 11+7reb+2ast, A.Paesano 11+5reb+2ast, M.Diomede 7+3reb+1astOrtona: A.Svoboda 16+1reb+1ast, F.Gialloreto 11+1reb+2ast, L.Castelluccia 10+5reb, G.Di Carmine 9+8reb+3ast, A.Martelli 6+6reb+1ast, A.Agostinone 4+1reb+1ast

Emporio Armani - CSKA 64:79 CSKA rallied to the 10th victory. They beat Emporio Armani in Milan to remain on top of the ladder. Aaron Jackson (190-G-86, college: Duquesne) and Dmitrii Kulagin (197-G/F-92, agency: Stanislav Ryzhov) recorded 14 points each for the winners. Emporio Armani sank 23 points in the first term to take a 2-point lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the second stanza. The hosts arrived at halftime up by two points 38:36. However CSKA turned the tables in the... [read more]

Emporio Armani - CSKA 64:79

CSKA rallied to the 10th victory. They beat Emporio Armani in Milan to remain on top of the ladder. Aaron Jackson (190-G-86, college: Duquesne) and Dmitrii Kulagin (197-G/F-92, agency: Stanislav Ryzhov) recorded 14 points each for the winners. Emporio Armani sank 23 points in the first term to take a 2-point lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the second stanza. The hosts arrived at halftime up by two points 38:36. However CSKA turned the tables in the second half. The defending champions unleashed 30 points in the third term to take a 12-point lead at the final break 66:54. CSKA limited the Italian team to just 10 points in the fourth quarter and raced to a comfortable win at the end. Cory Higgins (195-G-89, college: Colorado) chipped in 11 points in the win. Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) responded with 11 points for Emporio Armani. Jamel McLean (203-F-88, college: Xavier, agency: BeoBasket) and Richard Hickman (189-G-85, college: NC-Greensboro) tossed in 10 points each in the loss.

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